Tithing

Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). This being true, Christians should be willing to give for worthy causes, and there is no greater cause than the work of the Lord's church. In Old Testament times, the Israelites were commanded to tithe or pay 10% of their income, or fruit of the land, to the Lord. When the people wanted to be like the nations round about them they asked for a King. Samuel, the prophet, told them the king would require them to tithe. Among other things, these funds would be used to maintain the kingdom, or government, which included its military (1 Sam 8:11-15).

The New Testament, which Christians are to follow, does not teach tithing. Nevertheless, many church leaders today require its members to tithe. Some even demand to see tax returns to assure the correct amount is paid. One might try to justify the action of requiring tithes by saying that Old Testament tithing is an example for us. Is it? Don't we pay taxes to our government in addition to what we give to the church? And are these funds not used for much of the same thing the King of Israel used them for in Old Testament times? It is neither scriptural nor fair to require Christians to pay tithes. For some, when all the bills are paid, even though frugality is practiced, there may not be 10% left over. On the other hand, 10% of one's gross income might be a small sacrifice for one who makes lots of money.

How much a New Testament Christian should give is a matter between the giver and God. The apostle Paul informs us that how much we give should be based upon how "God has prospered him" (1 Cor 16:2) and that a man should give "as he purposeth in his heart...not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver" (2 Cor 9:7).

The church of Christ at Forum welcomes visitors and/or private home studies. See the link below for contact information: www.ForumCOC.org